Hiking touring

Explore the Arctic your way

Private hiking touring on Svalbard

Our unique private hiking tours are designed around you. This way you can choose the pace and pause when you want to. Our professional guides and our travel designers will create your next Svalbard hiking tour no matter if you would like a hiking trip with the family or an expedition under the Arctic skies. 

Discover Svalbard's best hiking adventures

Discover valleys and secret ridges only locals know on Svalbard. This will all be combined in a private hiking tour showing you the best of Svalbard with nature, history and the arctic adventure just designed for you so every trip will be different.

This will be in your own pace, interest and wishes for experiencing Svalbard. A private hiking tour is perfect for smaller groups or families.

A half day tour is 3-4 hours
A full day tour is 5-8 hours

HIGHLIGHTS

Who is this tour for

Who is this tour for?

This tour is not for you if you:

What guests say

Don't just take our word for it.

Beautiful hikes with great guides
Patrik L
We did a one day hike to Trollstein and also a shorter one to Blomsterdalshogda the next day. Amazing views and great hikes! The guides were really nice and knowledgeable. Especially the longer hike to Trollstein was our best experience from Longyearbyen!
Summer hiking trip with children.
Mathilde_travel • Aug 2025 • Family
We did a family hiking tour (august)with children , all aged 7 and up and absolutely loved it. It was a wonderful adventure for everyone, with the utmost safety at all times. By email, we spoke with Erlend, who was always very professional and friendly. It couldn't have gone better! If we had more days in Svalbard, our priority would certainly be to book another tour with Backyard Svalbard!
2 days with private guided activities
Sarah F
I used Backyard Svalbard for two days of private guided activities this July. I contacted them looking for a combination of bird watching and hiking, they delivered really well on that. We went bird watching in Adventdalen and the bird reserve by the airport, for a hike up Platåfjellet, Bjørndalen and part of Fuglefjellet, and a glacier walk by the city. Out of the different companies in Svalbard I talked to, they were the ones with the best and fastest communication upfront, even sending me additional info about where in town I could go to spot wildlife without a guide as well. During the walks/hikes my guide Niall did a great job as well, easy to communicate with and flexible with the activities. Overall a really great experience, definitely can recommend, and will try to use them again next time I visit 🙂
Perfect day hiking across Foxfonna Glacier.
Gareth M • Oct • Solo
I had originally booked onto the ice climbing excursion, but being the first days of the season, the ice wasn’t strong enough for is to climb, sadly. However I still wanted to do something, and ended up still having such a great day. My guide Andreas, he took me to Foxfonna Glacier, which is somewhere that usual tours don’t normally go. We did a pretty tough hike to the glacier and then after putting our safety gear on, walked across and explored the glacier and the melt water channels which were just stunning. The short day, provided the best lighting for the surroundings. Despite not being what I originally booked, I still had a great day, and just as much funds Thank you so much.

PRIVATE HIKING

  • NOK 5400

    / total for a half day
    1 to 4 persons

  • + NOK 500

    / per extra person half day
    5 to 8 persons

  • NOK 7500

    / total for a full day
    1 to 4 persons

  • + NOK 1000

    / per extra person full day
    5 to 8 persons

Save my spot

Svalbard hiking routes

We know every trail, glacier, and summit around Longyearbyen to create the most memorable experience for you. We’ll help you choose the right tour or create a tailor-made hiking experience for you to get the most intimate, adventurous experience possible in Svalbard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our private hiking tours on Svalbard are suitable for all ages, families and skill levels. The tours are 100% private, and your guide tailors the route and pace entirely to your physical fitness level.

It’s a good way of experiencing Svalbard whether you want to slow down or speed up – your guide will design the best possible hike for you.

Difficulty level for the half day hiking tours: 
Suitable for those with average physical fitness. 

The answer is “no”. You may already know that it is only recommended to walk outside Longyearbyen if you have polar bear protection with you. For this private hiking tour you can enjoy the undivided attention of a professional Arctic guide, who will be ensuring a safe, flexible, and deeply personal experience far from crowds and group tours. The perfect way to experience more of Svalbard outside town. Arctic private guiding is the exclusive safe access to the Arctic wilderness.

How do I choose difficulty level?

The hiking touring difficulty level and program can vary depending on which route you prefer. We recommend that you choose a route beforehand for a half day or full day hike. You can choose from the examples of the different hiking tours below, but you can also have a talk with the guide before the tour to tailor your preferences more. In the end it will be up to the guide to create the unforgettable hiking day.

Half day hiking tour (approx 3-4 hours): 
Perfect for those who want a taste of Svalbard’s backyard. Experience wilderness without spending the entire day outdoors. Several tours are suitable for all ages but you need a normal psyical fitness level. 

Full day hiking tours (approx. 5-8 hours depending on chosen hike)

For those who wish to go deeper into the arctic wilderness and who have a good physical fitness level for a full day hiking tour in the mountains. Suitable for those with very good physical fitness. Demanding full-day hike in rocky and uneven terrain.

You can do a private hiking trip if you are 1 or 4 persons, and in this case you will pay for at least 4 persons. The price will – as minimum – be for 4 persons which means that you will then have the guide to yourself for a half day or full day hike. You will explore in your pace without running after a big group. This is the best way to explore the Arctic wilderness. No rush and just your time to experience and enjoy. 

Yes, absolutely. Private hiking is an amazing way to introduce your children to the Arctic as you can do the tour in your pace. We recommend half day tours which are in more easy terrain. We recommend that we focus more on flora and Arctic wildlife spotting rather than on doing longer hikes. A nice way to end the hike is to have a barbeque.  

Yes, for the private hiking tours it is possible to add extra experiences into the hike like having a barbeque, proposal etc. Just add the dreams and information when you are making the booking and we will try our best to make it happen. 

For safety reasons, all passengers must be able to understand and communicate in either Norwegian or English. If this is not possible, the passenger must be accompanied by someone who is fluent in one of these languages. We can deny participation on the tour if you are not properly dressed for hiking and/or requirements above have not been fulfilled. Safety is our top priority. 

For the private hiking trip we’ll meet you at your hotel in the morning, where you’ll get to know the guide. Here we plan the day together and decide which hike may be best for you if we haven’t already done so together beforehand. You can choose from the possibilities above. Our guides know the areas well, and can also modify the plan along the way according to the weather conditions or your preferences.

Packing list 

  • Solid and warm hiking boots
  • Windproof outdoor clothing (GoreTex type)
  • Warm inner layers (we strongly recommend wool)
  • Backpack 25-40L (summer)
  • Gloves: warm for winter and thinner for summer
  • Beanie/thin neck-gaiter
  • Sunglases (not during winter)
  • Camera
  • Backpack 25 to 40 Liter for personal belongings (camera, extra layers and waterbottle)
  • Waterbottle  

 

You can use your own with a good ankle support or you can rent hiking boots from us so you will have the best equipment for hiking. The price is NOK 150,- per person for both a half day or full day tour. After the tour, the boots must be returned to the guide. We only have adult sizes (please bring boots for children). Just contact us when booking or add this in the booking process.

No, you can’t bring a stroller. This is not allowed on the tundra. We recommend a baby carrier for hiking. You can rent a baby carrier from us as well (children up to age 3).

High-quality gear rental

You are welcome to use your own hiking boots.
Please ensure you wear correct footwear for a hike,
otherwise we can deny your participation
without a refund or change of the tour for a different date.
We also have rental available.

  • Backcountry skiing from summit to sea in untouched wilderness of Svalbard
    "Hiking boots"
    NOK 150 /per person per day
    You can rent a pair of high ankle warm hiking boots from us

Add extra to your hiking experience

  • Add a barbeque to your Svalbard hiking experience. A Traditional Norwegian grill Sausage And Potatoes, lompe (bread wrap).
    "Barbeque"
    NOK 260 /per person per day
    Add a traditional norwegian barbecue to your hiking experience. Sausage, lompe (norwegian bread) & potatos.

Day tour at a glance

Program

The best hiking tours on Svalbard...

...because our hiking tours are tailored to your level and not the other way around.

Every tour is carefully adapted to your fitness experience, and ambitions. Whether you seek a gentle scenic walk or a demanding Arctic trek, your route, pace, and duration are built specifically for you. Instead of keeping up the pace for the bigger group tours you can now take your time and do a photostop if you wish to. You can have a look at hiking possibilities under "Choose your hiking tour" below. We will start with a pick up from your hotel.

Find the perfect fit:
Duration and price

Duration 3-4 hours

From 1 to 4 persons for a private tour:

Half day: NOK 1350,- per person when 4 persons (Total of NOK 5400,-)

Added price above 4 persons:
Half-day trips: NOK 500,- per person

Duration 5-8 hours

From 1 to 4 persons for a private tour:

Full day: NOK 1875,- per person with 4 persons (Total of NOK 7500,-)

Added price above 4 persons:
Full day trips: NOK 1000,- per person

Discover the untouched landscapes

Step into dramatic Arctic scenery with mountains, and vast open spaces as well as glaciers. Are you going to spot wildlife like polar foxes, Arctic birds and reindeers? Or maybe hike to a beautiful panorama views? The hike can be selected to match both conditions and your expectations whether you are travelling as a family, smaller group, as photographers, single etc..

Moments that matter and time to experience

You will have plenty of time to pause, when you want to, to take in the silence, and to make a memory by capturing photos and video of the experience. There will be time to simply connect with the Arctic environment.

Return to your hotel

After enjoying a warm drink we will return to your hotel and your camera will be filled with lots of memories from this private tour.

Easy hikes (half day 3-4 hours): Nature and discovery

Easy hikes where you will explore Arctic valleys, wildlife and silence at your own pace. Perfect for beginners, families and photographers.

Panorama viewpoint to the fjords

Hike to Lindholmhøgda
– The great view to the fjord

A half day and family friendly easy hike.

Ideal for families of all ages and those who prefer shorter, gentler walk in the arctic landscape.
Lindholmhøgda is a beautiful and accessible hike, with some elevation but perfect for those looking for a lighter adventure while still taking in the magnificent Arctic landscapes.
The hike offers impressive views over Longyearbyen, the surrounding valleys, and the glacier-covered mountains. You’ll explore historical remnants from the mining in Longyearbyen along the way. A great introduction to Svalbard’s wilderness.

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Visit the Global Seed Vault and iconic places in Longyearbyen

The Seed Vault and stunning views

Hike to Blomsterdalshøgda
– A cultural & botany hike

A relatively easy hiking tour up hill for beginners but visually stunning hike.
This hike is ideal for those seeking a peaceful, scenic outing with minimal difficulty, perfect for families or beginner hikers.

Our hike will take us to the outside of the world-famous Global Seed Vault, where all the seed of the vault are stored inside the mountain. We will not be able to enter but enjoy the views and stories from this place. We will continue the hike up Blomsterdalshøgda which roughly translates into Flower Valley as this place is rich in flora during the Arctic summer. During winter you will not be able to experience the flora but the views are absolutely amazing over Isfjorden and the mountains. Everything just gets better the higher up the mountain you’ll get. The trail takes you through gentle slopes and rocky terrain, with spectacular views of the fjords and surrounding glaciers.

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An easy hike along the historical trail with great views

The historical trail and forgotten path

Hike on Burmaveien
– An Arctic panorama walk

A relatively easy straight forward hike

This hike will let you experience the histoical trail with mining culture and historic awareness of wars influence. This tour will start at the edge of Longyearbyen and take you on the historical trail out into the place where you cannot enter without polar bear protection. This is the “non-touristic” route as you will explore this place like a local with your own private guided walk. The road is normally fairly empty from people and there will be no groups here, just nature and a straight forward gravel road with not much elevation. This non-touristic route takes you beyond the usual sights, diving into the history, culture, and everyday life of the Arctic community. You’ll visit less-known places, learn about the fascinating history of mining and survival in such a harsh climate, and get a feel for the local vibe. This easy-paced walk is perfect for those wanting to explore the town in a more personal and intimate way. The “Non-Touristic” route -private walk outside Longyearbyen

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Bjørndalen is a family friendly private hiking tour in Svalbard

Photographers paradise

Hike to Bjørndalen
– A scenic valley rich in wildlife

A relatively easy hike (also for children)

This is paradise for photografers go to catche a photo of the reindeers, a polar fox or the diverse bird species, or floras . It is also perfect for families with children as the terrain is fairely easy to walk with not much elevation (but also the possibility of getting more elevation towards the Bird plateau for spotting auk, loonie and seagulls if prefered). Learn about the mining history, fossils and the Arctic nature on this private hike to Bjørndalen near the coastline where the mountains rise high around.

Tip: This tour would be absolutely perfect to have a barbecue included by the ocean at the end of the tour.

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Moderate hikes (half or full day): Summit adventures

For those who wish to reach ridges and views that takes your breath away. For those who love a challenge

The scenic hike

Hike to Sarkofagen
– Glacier valleys & rocky paths

A full day and moderate hiking tour through glacier moraine. 

Sarkofagen, also known as the “Casket,” is a scenic hike that offers a perfect combination of challenge and beauty. The trail leads through glacial valleys and rocky paths, with views of majestic glaciers and Longyearbyen from above. The hike is moderate in difficulty, with some steeper sections that require a steady pace. It’s ideal for those looking to explore Svalbard’s wilderness without a long, strenuous day.

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Join us on a Svalbard hiking tour to the locals favorite mountain Plataafjellet in Longyearbyen

Panorama view

Hike to Platåfjellet
– The locals favorite mountain

A half day moderate hiking tour with sweeping views of the town, Adventfjorden and the surrounding peaks

This shorter, yet rewarding, hiking tour to Platåfjellet provides stunning panoramic views of Longyearbyen and the surrounding mountains. The path is well-defined, and the ascent is moderate, making it suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. From the summit, you’ll see sweeping views over the town and its fjord, as well as the chance to spot wildlife like reindeer or Arctic foxes in the area. After climbing up a rocky path you’ll find a cairn “Varden” and will have a great view already. This is a great option for a half-day hike that delivers incredible Arctic scenery.

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Challenging hikes (full day 6-8 hours): The wildest peaks

For the experienced hikers who are ready to explore the wildest corners of Svalbard with experienced guides. You need to be in good physical shape.

Join us on a guided hiking trip to the highest mountain near Longyearbyen.

The highest peak near town

Hike to Nordenskiöldfjellet
– 1051 meter above sea level

A full day tour challening hiking tour to the highest peak in the vicinity of Longyearbyen.

How many can say they have hiked the highest peak on Svalbard? This is a demanding hike which takes you to the summit of Nordenskiöldfjellet, one of the most impressive mountains in the region. During winter we will also have ski touring tours for this beautiful place. The route is challenging, requiring physical endurance and technical skills at the elevation is high, but the views from the top on 1051 meter above sea level are absolutely breathtaking. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers, fjords, and Longyearbyen. Perfect for experienced hikers looking for an active and Arctic adventure.

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Join a private guided hiking trip to the most iconic summit on Svalbard -Trollsteinen

The most iconic summit

Hike to Trollsteinen
– Raw Arctic nature & views

A full day challenging hiking tour to one of the area’s most iconic summits.

The Trollsteinen hike is an incredible journey with breathtaking views and a sense of true wilderness. The trail ascends through rugged terrain, glacier, and offering amazing views of the mountains and valleys below. The peak is at 849 meter above sea level. As you climb, the landscape transitions dramatically, showcasing Svalbard’s unique Arctic beauty. This hike is suited for those with a moderate level of fitness and prior hiking experience. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for a challenge without the extreme difficulty of higher peaks.

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A remote and rewarding route

Hike to Lars Hierta Mountain:
– Views to glaciers & fjords

A full day tour challening hiking tour

Lars Hiertafjellet is facinating to hike because it combines a spectacular Arctic nature, unique geological formations and great panoramaview to glaciers and fjords. The mountain is places i Nordenskiöld Land on Spitsbergen approx. 7 kilometers south-southwest to Longyearbyen. The mountain has a hight of 878 meters above sea level and is placed between Longyearbreen and Larsbreen. The hike is relatively easy accessible from Longyearbyen, but going up hill it will give a physical challenge and a big nature experience crossing stones and maybe snowcovered places. From the top you will have an undisturbed view which will be a rewarding experience.

 

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Upgrade your hiking adventure

If you wish to create a special surprise or wish to add something special to your hiking experience please feel free to contact us. Here you can find possible upgrades for all hiking tours. 

Add a barbeque to your Svalbard hiking experience. A Traditional Norwegian grill Sausage And Potatoes, lompe (bread wrap).

BBQ option for hikes

Add a unique twist to your hike with a barbeque at one of Svalbard’s beautiful outdoor spots. Enjoy a delicious meal cooked over an open fire, surrounded by the pristine nature of the Arctic. Whether it’s a rewarding end to one of our longer hikes or a standalone adventure, this BBQ experience adds a warm, cozy touch to your outdoor journey. Vegetarian option is available too.

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Hiking on Svalbard is one of the most unforgettable experiences with view to glaciers, Arctic wildlife and moutains as far as the eye can see.

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If you need assistance before booking please feel free to contact us: Click here

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A popular destination on Svalbard for panorama photos of Longyearbyen
Photo by Linnea Betz
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